Bacolod: Business tycoon Hans Sy, chairperson of SM Prime Holdings Inc., was officially declared an adopted son and honorary mayor of this city during the 20th Bacolaodiat Festival, one of the country’s biggest Chinese New Year celebrations. Sy, accompanied by his children Harvey and Hanna Carinna, received a copy of the resolution on his conferment from Vice Mayor El Cid Familiaran during the City Council’s regular session Thursday afternoon.

According to Philippines News Agency, Sy expressed his gratitude and humility in being conferred the titles during the festival. He highlighted Bacolod’s strong sense of community and the enduring partnership with its Filipino-Chinese community, which has motivated SM’s investments in the city since 2007. Sy noted that these investments celebrate Bacolod’s diversity and progress, contributing to its vibrant and revitalized state today.

Sy also reflected on the legacy of his late father, Henry Sy Sr., who received similar honors in 2017. He emphasized his father’s belief in inclusivity and the transformative power of collaboration toward a better future, stating that these principles continue to guide him. Sy expressed his commitment to support Bacolod’s growth through various avenues beyond business, including education, tourism, job generation, sustainability, and disaster prevention.

At the City Mayor’s Office, Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez expressed gratitude for the insights and expertise Sy can share with the city as its honorary mayor. The City Council’s unanimous resolution recognized Sy for his exceptional contributions to economic development, business leadership, and philanthropy, serving as a role model for community progress and innovation.

The resolution further acknowledged Sy’s leadership in fostering business growth and investment in Bacolod City, highlighting his commitment to social responsibility, family values, and civic engagement, which align with the ideals of the city’s Chinese community.